The drama starring Phoebe Dynevor and Alden Ehrenreich is on Netflix starting October 6.
I recently spoke with George C. Siougas and Michael Stevenson. Siougas is the writer and director of the short film The One Note Man and Stevenson is one of the producers.
Siougas explained after being asked what drew him to the craft of cinema that escapism was the answer. He always found reality hard to deal with and less interesting than the wonderful world of the dark cinema. Ever since he was a young boy, he remembered being the happiest in the cinema and watching Disney’s The Rescuers. All of the escapist films were a joy for him and he wanted to give that escapist feeling to the audiences and to other people.
Stevenson’s reason for being drawn to the craft stemmed back from watching the old classic actors, as he is an actor by trade. Some of his biggest inspirations were watching movies like The Sting and Midnight Cowboy, for example. As an actor, Stevenson moved to TV but his love for film never failed and he met George as his “kindred spirit”.
Siougas said that he was in lockdown [during COVID] and he was going through a “Hitchcock” phase and was rewatching all of his films and reread the Truffaut book and studied Hitchcock every day and he was listening to an interview and Hitchcock talked about his film The Man that Knew Too Much and the director talked about why he started the film with the crashing of the cymbals and Hitchcock mentioned he got it the idea from a comic strip called The One Note Man by H.M. Bateman, which was about a man who wakes up, gets ready for work, goes to an orchestra and plays one note and leaves.
They made contact with Bateman’s estate and the filmmakers were given the rights to turn it into a short film.
Stevenson claimed that the most difficult problem in making movies is raising the finances and getting that first part of financial incentive. George agrees with him as it is hard to communicate that difficult process.
Siougas also claims that compromising is great for filmmakers because it forces said filmmakers to be more economic in the choices that they make.
Hey guys! My name is Seven and I’m taking over my mom’s account 🙂
So this week I got to see the new Paw Patrol movie. At first, when my mom told me about it, I was like; I don’t want to go see this movie because it’s going to be too babyish for me. But she forced me to go, of course, and to my surprise, it was actually pretty good and not too babyish at all. So here I am doing my very First Movie Write-up Review! Check out below! (P.S. Mom helped a little, but only a bit.)
Once upon a time in Adventure City, a magical meteor crash-landed with a BOOM! And guess what happened? The PAW PATROL PUPS got Super-duper Powers and became…The MIGHTY PUPS! Yeahhhh!
For Skye, the cutest and tiniest pup on the team, this was like a dream come true! She felt like the coolest pup in town! But uh-oh, things took a wild turn when the pups’ biggest nemesis, Humdinger, broke out of jail!! And guess what? He teamed up with Victoria Vance! She’s a totally crazy, mad scientist who didn’t want to be called a “mad” scientist. Also, she was obsessed with meteors. If meteors could talk, they would say to her, like, why are you so obsessed with me? (Mariah Carey voice lol). Anyway, she and the old mayor wanted to steal the pups’ superpowers to become ultimate supervillains! Can you believe that?
Yeah, so as you guessed it, Adventure City was in BIG trouble! The fate of the whole city was hanging by a thread. And who could save the day? Duh, The Mighty Pups of course! They had to stop those sneaky supervillains before it was too late. It was up to Skye and her superpowers to show everyone that even the tiniest pup could make the biggest, most awesome difference!
So, get ready for an epic, mind-blowing adventure where the Mighty Pups will fight, fly, and use their super-duper powers to protect Adventure City! It’s time to show those baddies that nobody messes with the PAW Patrol! Let’s go, Mighty Pups, let’s save the day!
The movie is out TODAY!!! Check it with your family and friends. Hope you like it 🙂
Paw Patrol, we’re on a roll!
Check me out on IG @LeaveituptoSeven
Steven Out! Peace!
This week’s installment of Power Book IV: Force has set fans abuzz with its riveting blend of suspense and emotional depth.
Jenard’s descent into turmoil continues to captivate, while Mireya’s unexpected connection with Tommy adds layers of intrigue. Tommy’s triumphant recovery of his stolen ride injects a thrilling twist, and the ominous fate of law enforcement in the Power universe looms large. Mireya’s swift decision to leave her past relationship for Tommy hints at the magnetic allure he possesses.
Conversely, Diamond and Jenard’s father appear on the periphery of the narrative, contributing little to the unfolding drama. The poignant demise of the Flynn family’s most loyal member, Crown Vic, showcases character growth amidst the high-stakes world they inhabit.
D Mac’s surprising romantic venture introduces a compelling facet to his character, unveiling a more vulnerable side beneath his calculated exterior. This bold shift not only deepens our understanding of D Mac but also raises questions about the potential impact on his criminal alliances and loyalties. It introduces an element of unpredictability, keeping viewers guessing about his future choices.
Vic and Claudia’s ruthless dismantling of the organization in a single night leaves a lasting impression, highlighting the cutthroat nature of their world. This development sets the stage for intense plot twists, as power dynamics within the criminal underworld undergo a seismic shift. Questions about the repercussions of their actions hint at potential challenges and retaliation in future episodes.
In contrast to the chaos, Diamond’s poignant closure with his father provides a touching and emotionally resonant moment. The actors’ powerful performances convey profound emotions, showcasing the series’ ability to balance intense action with heartfelt human connection.
The scene between Diamond and Jenard stands out, emphasizing the actors’ exceptional skills and the writers’ ability to craft compelling character interactions. Tommy’s decision to send D Mac on a mission injects suspense into the storyline, leaving us eager to see the repercussions of this risky move. Meanwhile, Vic’s involvement in precarious endeavors with the police introduces uncertainty, raising questions about potential consequences for his character and the broader narrative. These developments promise a thrilling and unpredictable future for the series, leaving viewers eagerly expecting what’s next.
In summary, I have hailed this episode as the series’ pinnacle, offering a mix of thrilling twists and emotional depth that ensures an exhilarating ride for viewers in the episodes to come.
In an era defined by escalating disparities between the privileged elite and the rest of society, “Dumb Money” thrusts us into the epicenter of a battle where underdogs boldly confront the one percenter.
Recalling the fervor of Occupy Wall Street, a movement that erupted over a decade ago against wealth inequality, the documentary draws parallels to the more recent GameStop Short Squeeze of Jan. 2021. A riveting narrative unfolds, inspired by “The Antisocial Network,” reimagining events from just over two and a half years ago.
The story kicks off in the summer of 2019, introducing Keith Gill, brilliantly portrayed by Paul Dano—a Chartered Financial Analyst and YouTuber. Gill passionately champions the undervalued GameStop stock on platforms like YouTube and Reddit, attracting a growing legion of everyday individuals. As the movement gains momentum, Wall Street’s titans grow increasingly uneasy. In the end, Gill and his cohort of investors achieve unprecedented success, leaving Wall Street’s elite reeling from substantial losses.
Paul Dano’s portrayal of Gill is exceptional, capturing the essence of a quirky yet savvy YouTuber and financial analyst. His performance adds depth to the intricate financial machinations beneath the surface. Supported by a stellar cast including Seth Rogen, Vincent D’Onofrio, Pete Davidson, America Ferrera, Sebastian Stan, Shailene Woodley, and Anthony Ramos, the ensemble contributes to the film’s formidable impact.
Director Craig Gillespie, known for his work on “Cruella,” maintains an engaging pace, translating the script into a visually captivating narrative. Despite the potentially intimidating financial jargon, the film ensures accessibility, breaking down complex concepts for a diverse audience.
“Dumb Money” promises an engaging experience for all, whether you’re a financial enthusiast looking to revisit a captivating chapter of history or someone intrigued by the real-life clash between financial giants and the underdogs.
The excitement reaches a fever pitch as STARZ announces the long-awaited return of “Power Book III: Raising Kanan,” with its third season set to debut on December 1.
Fans can mark their calendars for the thrilling journey ahead, as STARZ reveals tantalizing first-look photos that offer a glimpse into the riveting narrative. The highly anticipated new episodes of “Raising Kanan” will be available for streaming on the STARZ app and on-demand platforms, while also captivating audiences on linear television in the U.S., Canada, and internationally on the LIONSGATE+ premium streaming platform in the U.K. and Ireland.
In the heart of Southside Jamaica, Queens, the main character’s tumultuous journey resumes right where it left off after season two. The aftermath of the Mob’s relentless assault on Raquel, Marvin, and Lou-Lou reverberates through the narrative, leaving emotions high and the stakes even higher.
As the captivating drama unfolds, viewers can expect the introduction of new cast members who will further enrich the storyline. Wendell Pierce and Erika Woods take on the roles of “Snaps” and “Pop” Henry, while Grantham Coleman steps into the shoes of “Ronnie.” These fresh faces join the ensemble, adding depth to the already gripping ensemble.
Returning to the screen are familiar favorites, including the incomparable Patina Miller, reprising her role as “Raquel Thomas,” and MeKai Curtis, captivating audiences once more in the titular role of “Kanan Stark.” The engaging narrative promises to explore the intricate web of relationships and challenges that continue to shape the Thomas family’s destiny.
As anticipation builds, “Power Book III: Raising Kanan” is gearing up for a new chapter filled with twists, turns, and unmissable moments. With the premiere date locked in, fans can look forward to being transported back into the vibrant and gritty world of Queens, where loyalties are tested, alliances shift, and the pursuit of power knows no bounds.
In the highly anticipated second season of Power Book IV: Force, there are no brakes on the thrilling ride that awaits.
Tommy Egan, now a hunted man, faces threats from both the Flynn family and the relentless police force, the stakes are higher than ever. His unexpected alliance with a key character from the previous season proves to be a perfect match, adding layers of intrigue to the unfolding narrative.
This season takes a creative turn by using social media as a covert tool for product promotion, showcasing the dealers’ inventive methods of spreading their message. However, the consequences that accompany this approach promise a gripping journey throughout the rest of the season.
The sibling rivalry between Jenard and Diamond escalates, adding an exciting dynamic to the storyline. Both characters undergo substantial development, especially Jenard, who transforms from a one-dimensional figure into a driven individual with a compelling motive.
The early mourning of Gloria and Liliana’s deaths leaves Vic grappling with grief. The impending impact on his family dynamics, especially considering Claudia’s apprehension about Tommy, adds a layer of complexity to the unfolding drama. The ominous threat to the Dahlia recipe intensifies the suspense.
Tommy’s quest for justice following Liliana’s death unravels a gripping mystery, introducing new characters that promise to play pivotal roles throughout the season. The narrative unfolds seamlessly, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.
Overall, the first episode of Power Book IV: Force’s second season not only meets but exceeds expectations. The core cast delivers exceptional performances, with every line and scene feeling remarkably natural and authentic. The episode leaves audiences eagerly expecting more, setting the stage for an exhilarating season ahead.
The Meg franchise has been revived this summer for Meg 2: The Trench. The film follows Jonas Taylor (Jason Statham) as he works with Jiuming Zhang (Wu Jing) at Juiming’s environmental foundation and also helps to raise his niece, Meiying (Sophia Cai). Together, along with a research team, they venture into Mariana’s Trench. Chaos ensues on multiple fronts as they encounter Megs and subterfuge from environmental naysayers, leading viewers on an action-packed ride.
Meg 2 is a nice mix of crowd-pleasing humor and action, lending itself as the perfect movie for a viewer hoping to duck into a movie theater to escape the summer’s heat to the disgruntled babysitter looking for an activity to keep the kids busy for the afternoon. Initially slow to kick off, the second half of The Meg 2 more than compensates for this with a whirlwind series of battles between Statham, Jing, their teammates, and the elements surrounding them that will have the rest of the moviegoer’s time flying by.
Viewers can look to DJ (played by Page Kennedy) to do most of the comedic lifting in the second half of the film. It is also advised to see the first movie in the Meg franchise, as there are several references to key plot points left over from the first film. Ultimately, Meg 2: The Trench is a movie best seen at home with friends and family, free to laugh not only with, but more importantly at the film, to your heart’s content.
A movie about the beanie baby craze of the mid-90s isn’t quite what you would expect.
When I was conducting the mental list of my favorite movies of 2023 so far, I did not expect to place a horror flick among the top spots a horror flick. I consider myself a horror aficionado, but it has recently felt like every scary movie has seemed derivative, devoid of creativity, and just…not scary. Talk to Me by the Australian Philippou brothers finally broke me out of the horror slump and presented me with a fresh, genuinely scary concept that has been the best scary movie, for me at least, since 2018’s Hereditary, also an A24 film.
Looking back at Hereditary, I can draw similarities between the two that make both hallmark horror films. For one, while we get the blood, guts, and ghouls in each film, the primary context that each establishes is one of conflicts within the family. To this end, Talk to Me is wonderful in its depiction of the main character Mia’s (Sophie Wilde) trauma after losing her mother to an accidental suicide, which becomes her primary motivation for the rest of the film. She encounters a group of teens who have come across an embalmed hand that allows them to haphazardly summon spirits of the dead for laughs and social media posts, and while they enact a strict 90-second limit to talking with the dead, Mia frantically surpasses this when the spirit that response is that of her deceased mother. This is where the distinctions between this film and other, lesser films in the same genre begin — while another film may have attributed her “breaking the rules of the game” to teenage stupidity, as many do, this film has real, grounded motivations that frankly any of us would fall victim to.
Of course, surpassing the 90-second mark leads to a door to the spirit world opening, and all hell breaking loose. Once again, relationships serve as the focus of the plot, with Mia’s relationship with her mother highlighted as she comes closer to finding out the secret of her death, her strained interactions with her father as she realizes he has been hiding something, and her guilt towards putting her friend’s brother in the hospital in a dilapidated state after her selfish actions. The way they weave together these three threads is masterfully done and leaves the audience on the edge of their seat almost constantly. This also very much gives credence to how a movie needs the “human factor” to satisfy, as, without relatability and depth of character, they impressed little on the viewer’s mind other than cheesy scares.
While the story is brilliant, not that they have undermined the special effects of this film. The blood and gore are fantastic, and even while knowing that what I was seeing wasn’t real, my stomach lurched and a certain queasiness enveloped me. Most of the effects are practical, with CGI only used sparingly and invisibly. This creates a sense of realism that is exceedingly rare in modern cinema and adds to the feeling that this is something that happened to someone, somewhere in the world (probably Australia). There is one scene involving Riley (Joe Bird), Mia’s best friend’s brother. That is harrowing.
With all of this film’s intense successes, it’s hard to believe that the directors, Danny and Michael Phillipou, started on YouTube posting homemade skits and special effect videos. This film marks their feature directorial debut, but watching the movie, it feels like they have been directing for decades. To direct for the first time and have the film immediately stand with other greats in the genre is an incredible feat, and this speaks to the Phillipou brothers’ talent that was honed over the years, as well as their dedication to all the endeavors they set their minds to. It gives the idea that greatness can come from anywhere, and the brothers completely deserve the high reviews, the intense bidding war for rights to the film, and the eventual A24 purchase for rights to distribution. This is the birth of another defining directorial pair, and I, for one, cannot wait to see what they have in store for us next.
‘Talk to Me’ Theatrical poster, courtesy of A24